Source: William Charles Lunalilo, born
January 31, 1835, at Pohukaina, Oʻahu was a grand nephew of
Kamehameha I and a prince of high rank. His grandfather,
Kalaimamahu was Kamehameha I's half brother and his
grandmother was Kalakua, sister of Kaahumanu. Educated at
the Chief's Childrens School he was popular, a good student,
and won many scholastic awards. His favorite subjects were
literature and music and he composed poetry. In 1860,
Kamehameha IV sponsored a contest for a National Anthem:
Hawaiian lyrics set to the tune of "God Save The King". Won
by Prince Lunalilo, at age 25, this was written in 20
minutes. As a young man he was engaged to Princess Victoria
Kamamalu, a choice popular with everyone except her
brothers, Kauikeouli (Kamehameha III), Alexander Liholiho
(Kamehameha IV) and Lot Kapuiwa (Kamehameha V). The date was
set, but interference from her brothers, cancelled the
wedding. This offended Lunalilo so deeply, he refused to be
buried with Hawaiian royalty, choosing to be laid to rest on
the grounds of Kawaihao Church, alone and away from the
Kamehamehas. Neither Princess Victoria nor Prince William
ever married. English version by Makua Laiana